Tim Robinson

Tim Robinson is an American comedian, actor, and screenwriter known for his distinct brand of absurdist humor. Born in Detroit, he first gained prominence as a writer and cast member on Saturday Night Live before creating hit series like Detroiters and I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson. His work often explores social awkwardness through surreal scenarios that have resonated deeply with audiences worldwide.

As of 2026, Robinson continues to push the boundaries of sketch comedy with his latest HBO project The Chair Company. He remains a highly influential figure in modern comedy, respected by peers for his unique writing voice and ability to craft memorable, cringe-inducing characters that define a generation of internet culture. [edit]

Timothy John Robinson was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, where he developed a deep connection to the city's gritty culture. He attended Cass Technical High School, a public magnet school known for its strong arts programs, where he began honing his improvisational skills alongside future comedians. After graduating, he moved to Chicago to attend DePaul University but quickly realized his heart lay elsewhere. He dropped out to pursue comedy full-time, immersing himself in the city's vibrant improv scene.

Robinson spent several years performing at The Second City, one of the most prestigious improvisational theaters in the world. This period was crucial for his development as a performer, allowing him to refine his character work and sketch writing. He built a reputation in the Chicago circuit for his intense, eccentric style, which eventually caught the attention of scouts from New York. His time at The Second City laid the groundwork for his eventual hiring by Saturday Night Live, marking the transition from local talent to national star. [edit]

Robinson's career took off in 2012 when he joined Saturday Night Live as a writer and later became a featured player. During his four seasons on the show, he co-wrote iconic sketches like the "M&M Store" and created memorable characters such as the man obsessed with New Balance shoes. His departure from SNL in 2016 marked a turning point as he sought more creative control over his projects.

In 2017, he launched Detroiters on IFC, a series he co-created with Zach Kanin that starred both of them as police officers trying to solve crimes in their hometown. The show ran for two seasons and established his signature style of uncomfortable, cringe-comedy. In 2019, he achieved his biggest breakthrough with I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson on Netflix. The anthology series became a cultural phenomenon, spawning countless memes and viral moments. It ran until 2023 and earned multiple Emmy nominations.

His recent work includes starring in the A24 film Friendship in 2024 and launching The Chair Company on HBO in 2025. Despite the quiet removal of his Netflix catalog in late 2026, Robinson remains active and continues to expand his surreal universe with new projects. [edit]

Robinson is portrayed as a quirky, intense, and highly creative force in comedy. Media coverage emphasizes his dedication to absurdity and his ability to find humor in social awkwardness. His public persona is one of a "comedian's comedian," respected by peers for his writing and performance skills even if his work is niche. He often appears in interviews with a dry wit and a calm demeanor that contrasts sharply with the chaotic energy of his characters. His style is casual yet eccentric, often wearing outfits that reflect the awkward personas he plays on screen. [edit]

iFANN has not yet collected fame data for this person. He is not on the September 2026 iFAMOUS Rankings flagship list. His fanbase is highly organized online, with dedicated communities on Reddit and Twitter where fans dissect sketches and create fan art. Although there is no official fandom name, followers often refer to themselves informally as "Robinsonites." Fans frequently quote lines verbatim in daily conversation, particularly the catchphrase "I think you should leave." Robinson interacts with fans through occasional Instagram posts and convention appearances, maintaining a low profile while staying connected to his audience. [edit]

Robinson is an avid skateboarder who often incorporates skating into his daily life and occasionally into his creative work. He maintains a strong connection to Detroit, frequently referencing the city's unique culture and landscape in his shows, particularly in Detroiters. Before his television success, he spent years performing at The Second City, where he developed the loose, character-driven style that defines his later work. He frequently collaborates with a tight-knit group of comedians including Zach Kanin, Kyle Mooney, and Beck Bennett, who often appear in each other's projects. The line "I think you should leave" has entered the cultural lexicon, becoming a common phrase used by fans in everyday conversation. [edit]

Tim Robinson was born to parents who supported his early interest in comedy. He grew up in the Detroit area, where he spent much of his childhood exploring the city's neighborhoods on his skateboard. While he keeps his personal life relatively private, he has mentioned having close family ties to the Midwest. He currently resides in Los Angeles, California, though he frequently returns to Detroit to visit friends and family. He does not have any publicly known children or siblings who are also in the entertainment industry. [edit]

Zach Kanin, Kyle Mooney, Andrew DeYoung, Andy Samberg, Beck Bennett[edit]

Tim Robinson is known for maintaining a notably private personal life. Unlike many of his peers, he rarely discusses his romantic history in interviews or on social media. There are no public records of marriages, engagements, or long-term public relationships attributed to him. As of 2026, he is widely reported to be single. While he has close friendships within the comedy community, including frequent collaborators like Zach Kanin and Kyle Mooney, no credible sources confirm any current dating status or past high-profile romances. He resides primarily in Los Angeles, California, though he maintains ties to his native Detroit. [edit]

iFANN currently estimates Tim Robinson's net worth at approximately $6 million. This figure reflects his steady work in television and film, particularly his backend deals on I Think You Should Leave and his production company involvement. His primary income streams include salaries as a creator and star on Netflix and HBO, residuals from his time on Saturday Night Live and Detroiters, and earnings from his production ventures. Unlike some of his peers, he does not appear to have major endorsement deals or significant real estate holdings that would drastically boost his wealth beyond standard industry earnings. [edit]

While Tim Robinson has been nominated for numerous awards, particularly for I Think You Should Leave, his record of wins is limited compared to his nomination count. He received multiple Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Writing and Performance, but did not secure a win in those categories during the series' run. He has won smaller industry awards or recognition from comedy festivals, but no major ceremony wins are listed in verified databases. [edit]